Fluxus Manifesto

Definition

The Fluxus Manifesto is a pivotal document that outlines the principles and goals of the Fluxus movement, which emerged in the 1960s as a response to traditional forms of art. It emphasizes the importance of intermedia, performance, and collaboration, encouraging artists to break down barriers between different artistic disciplines. The manifesto serves as a call to action for artists to engage with everyday life and foster a sense of playfulness and experimentation in their work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Fluxus Manifesto was written by George Maciunas in 1963, outlining a vision for a new type of art that was accessible and integrated into everyday life.
2. One of the key ideas in the manifesto is the rejection of traditional art market values, encouraging artists to create works that are free from commercial constraints.
3. Fluxus artists aimed to challenge the distinctions between different art forms by incorporating performance, music, and visual art into their works.
4. The manifesto reflects a collaborative spirit, urging artists to work together and share ideas rather than compete for recognition.
5. Fluxus events often included audience participation, inviting people to become part of the artistic experience and emphasizing the importance of spontaneity.

Review Questions

• How does the Fluxus Manifesto reflect the values of intermedia in contemporary art practices?
  • The Fluxus Manifesto champions intermedia by advocating for the fusion of various artistic forms, encouraging artists to experiment beyond conventional boundaries. This principle is evident in the works produced during the Fluxus movement, where visual art, music, and performance seamlessly intertwine. By breaking down barriers between disciplines, the manifesto fosters an inclusive approach to creativity that resonates with many contemporary art practices today.
• Discuss how the Fluxus Manifesto's rejection of commercialism impacts artists' approaches to creating art.
  • The Fluxus Manifesto's strong stance against commercialism significantly alters how artists approach their work. By prioritizing accessibility over monetary gain, artists are encouraged to create pieces that resonate with everyday life rather than seeking validation from galleries or collectors. This shift allows for more experimental and playful expressions in art, ultimately leading to innovative forms of engagement that prioritize shared experiences over individual success.
• Evaluate the influence of the Fluxus Manifesto on later performance art movements and their objectives.
  • The Fluxus Manifesto has had a profound impact on subsequent performance art movements by establishing a framework for participatory and interdisciplinary practices. Its emphasis on collaboration and spontaneity paved the way for later artists who embraced similar ideals, challenging conventional notions of authorship and artistic authority. By fostering an environment where audience involvement is central, the manifesto's legacy continues to inspire contemporary performance art that seeks to break down barriers between artist and spectator, emphasizing communal experiences over solitary creations.

Related terms

Intermedia: An artistic practice that blends multiple mediums and disciplines, often seen in Fluxus works that incorporate elements of visual art, music, theater, and literature.

Happenings: Spontaneous and participatory events that blur the lines between art and life, often associated with the Fluxus movement and emphasizing audience interaction.

Dada:

An avant-garde art movement that emerged in the early 20th century, which influenced Fluxus by promoting anti-art sentiments and challenging traditional aesthetics.